Straker sets sights on more silverware

Anthony Straker hoping to add more silverware after winning the Conference with Aldershot Town

Blues defender Anthony Straker believes stepping out at Wembley for the first time will rival the occasion of playing for his country.

Straker, who earned his first cap for Grenada back in 2011, says facing Crewe Alexandra in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy will match that experience.

The 24-year-old also achieved promotion with Aldershot Town back in 2008, and he’s hoping to win more silverware with Blues.

“It’s an experience that I haven’t had yet in my career and it’s something I am really looking forward to,” Straker said.

“Of course, playing for my country was a very proud moment and this will be a similar feeling. They are both special occasions in anyone’s career so I can’t wait for Sunday.

“I’m more excited than nervous and I hope we all enjoy it, from the supporters to all the backroom staff and the players. It’s a huge day for the Club and to be taking over 30,000 fans sums up just how big an occasion this really is for everyone connected with Southend United Football Club.

“It’ll definitely be up there with any achievements that I have had in my career that includes representing my country and winning promotion to the Football League during my time at Aldershot.”

Straker feels it’s important that his team-mates take the same mentality into the game as if it’s a League 2 match if the Blues are to bring silverware to Roots Hall.

“It’s just another game. We have to keep our heads down, stay focused on the job in hand and to make sure we get the win.

“We will prepare in the same way throughout the week. Of course the lads will be buzzing about playing at Wembley, but first and foremost we must make sure we approach everything about the day in the correct manner.

“If we can do that, then hopefully we can win the game and we can lift the trophy at the end of it. It’s always special to win silverware so hopefully it will be us cheering come 3pm on Sunday.”